Samcheonpo Gizzard Shad Festival 2026: Dates, Parking & Lineup

Samcheonpo Gizzard Shad Festival 2026: Dates, Parking & Lineup,

Your Ultimate Guide to Sacheon, Gyeongnam

Still think summer gizzard shad isn't as tasty? Think again! I actually prefer summer gizzard shad because their bones are softer, making them super easy and enjoyable to eat. It's a culinary delight I actively seek out!

This August, you can indulge in delicious gizzard shad and enjoy a variety of performances at a vibrant festival held at Samcheonpo Port in Sacheon, Gyeongnam. This year marks the 23rd anniversary of this fantastic event! You can savor gizzard shad prepared in every way imaginable—raw sashimi, grilled, and even a spicy salad. As evening falls, stick around for captivating performances by guest singers, making it a perfect outing for families or a romantic weekend date.

Before you go, let's dive into the most important details: the festival schedule, parking information, and the exciting artist lineup.

1. Samcheonpo Gizzard Shad Festival Schedule

The 23rd Sacheon City Samcheonpo Port Wild Gizzard Shad Festival runs for four days, from Thursday, August 20, 2026, to Sunday, August 23, 2026.

Gizzard shad dishes will be available daily from 11 AM. Get ready for an eve celebration, the grand opening ceremony, dazzling fireworks, and special congratulatory performances. For those visiting with kids, don't miss the bare-hand gizzard shad catching event, held daily from 3:30 PM between August 21st and 23rd!

2. Parking Locations

With such a popular festival, traffic can get busy, so it's smart to know your parking options in advance.

There are two parking lots available. The one closer to the festival grounds is likely to fill up quickly. If you're planning to catch a performance or the fireworks, it's a good idea to arrive a little early to secure a spot.

3. Guest Singer Lineup

Beyond the delicious food, the guest singer performances are a major highlight! The stage atmosphere changes daily, so check the schedule beforehand if there's a particular artist you're eager to see. August 20th kicks off with an eve celebration, followed by the opening ceremony and fireworks on the 21st. The 22nd and 23rd feature special Gakseori Day events and celebratory performances.

Most performances typically kick off around 8 PM, so arriving early is recommended to snag a good spot!

4. Why Sacheon is a Great Place to Visit

The Samcheonpo Gizzard Shad Festival isn't just about eating gizzard shad—it's an entire experience that makes Sacheon a fantastic destination!

Beyond the delicious wild gizzard shad sashimi, grilled fish, and spicy salad, there's a wide array of interactive programs. Enjoy tasting sessions, a lively traditional market, on-site karaoke, quiz shows, and the super fun bare-hand gizzard shad catching.

The nearby Samcheonpo Yonggung Market is also worth exploring, offering a glimpse into fresh local seafood. You can easily plan a full day: enjoy the food and various programs during the day, then cap it off with evening performances and fireworks. If you're looking for a unique late-summer getaway with family or a romantic escape, this festival in Sacheon is definitely one to remember!

That wraps up our guide to the Samcheonpo Gizzard Shad Festival, including parking, guest singer lineup, and why it's a must-visit spot in Sacheon, Gyeongnam!